Early on, Gavin House founders recognized that recovery was a lifelong process, and that six months of residential treatment was only the beginning. To provide longer term support in recovery, the first Graduate Center was opened in 1976. As the demand grew a second facility was opened and now both receive residents from the Charlestown House, Cushing House, Gavin House and Hamilton House. Gavin Foundation residential program graduates live in the Centers for an average of four months. A live-in House Manager ensures the facility’s safety and security, runs weekly groups, collects fees and monitors residents progress. Residents are required to continue their prescribed course of therapy including; 12-step participation, attend Aftercare groups, and provide drug screens. The Graduate Centers are self-sufficient programs, supported by residents and fundraising events, and do not receive any public funding.